By Burnett Munthali
The Transporter Association of Malawi (TAM) has shed light on the ongoing fuel scarcity in the country, attributing the issue to financial difficulties faced by fuel importers. In a statement released by TAM Spokesperson Frank Banda, he pointed out that both Petroleum Importers Limited (PIL) and the National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA) are struggling to make payments to their suppliers due to the country’s shortage of foreign exchange.
“Malawians may wish to know that our trucks are currently at the ports in Beira, Mozambique, and Dar es Salaam in Tanzania waiting to load fuel, but the process is being delayed because of the outstanding payment issues between fuel importers and suppliers,” Banda explained.
The clarification from TAM follows concerns raised by the public over fuel shortages that have been affecting various regions of Malawi. Banda emphasized that it is crucial for the government, through the Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA), to fully comprehend the logistical challenges related to fuel importation. He also urged the authorities to avoid spreading misinformation or disinformation regarding fuel import deals and their impact on the current situation.
Yesterday, MERA Public Relations Officer Fitina Khonje commented on the fuel scarcity, stating that delays in accessing foreign currency by transporters had contributed to the situation. However, TAM’s statement further highlights that the root cause lies in the inability of fuel importers to settle payments with suppliers.
As Malawi continues to experience fuel shortages, the collaboration between fuel importers, the government, and transporters will be critical in resolving these logistical and financial hurdles to ensure the uninterrupted supply of fuel across the country.
